Office culture has always swayed back and forth between more private floorplans vs. a more open office landscape. Over the years more and more companies have moved towards the open plan not only because of cost savings but also because of the belief that offices without walls foster collaboration, creativity, and productivity. Now while those things do seem to be occurring, it hasn’t been without a few unexpected drawbacks. Like what do individuals or small groups do when they need a space to get away and focus on the task at hand?

According to the Wall Street Journal, many studies show that open-plan office spaces can negatively affect employees and their productivity.

Offices are stopping short, however, of returning to the traditional-style office with individual rooms, doors and desks. This is due mostly to the economics of space. Instead, companies are Creating quiet zones, such as soundproof rooms, as well as areas that allow for employees to escape the distractions at their desk can help with this issue.